Originally published:1978 as Discussion paper (Lincoln College (University of Canterbury). Agricultural Economics Research Unit) ; no. 39. by Lincoln College. Agricultural Economics Research Unit.
A postal survey of farmers in Mid Canterbury was
carried out in 1977 in order to ascertain the interest,
resources and attitudes of farmers to the growing of
sugar beet in their region.
An extremely high net valid response rate was
obtained to the survey. Results indicated that there
was considerable interest in sugar beet production.
Negative attitudes appeared to be associated with
unfamiliarity with the crop. Greater interest was
apparent on intensive cropping farms than on mixed
cropping and livestock farms; greater interest was also
displayed by younger as opposed to older farmers.
Expanding labour requirements associated with
sugar beet production was considered a constraint by
some of the interested growers. The use of contractors
appeared a favoured alternative in gaining access to
additional machinery such as a sugar beet harvester and a
precision drill.
Commitment to a minimum area of beet for an
initial period of years did not appear a major constraint
to those interested in the crop. A strong interest
was expressed in the use of by products for livestock
feed.
Eight percent of respondents had grown fodder beet
on a regular basis. Most respondents indicated they
required more advice on crop husbandry if they were to
commence sugar beet production.[Show full abstract]
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